This course examines the circumstances of the islands in the Antilles in the light of their relationship with the Netherlands, with the other islands in the Caribbean, and in the wider context of small island developing states (SIDS).  Students learn about the factors that weigh in cultural heritage and the current situation in island societies.  The course treats the issues that are relevant to understanding the challenges that these islands face, not only from the point of view of their political status, but also as small islands that have to adapt in the face of change in government, economy, climate, environment, biodiversity, and political relations with neighboring states and former colonial powers. The social, cultural and demographic makeup of the Caribbean islands contributes to the approaches that they take to their own development, and each island represents a very different case. For many of the islands, tourism is the main, if not only source of income; the impact of tourism on local culture, government, society, the environment and the economy is considered, as well as how sustainable tourism could benefit the community in the long term. Students learn to consider what kinds of research are relevant, and to apply their cultural competence to their assessment of how research might be carried out in cooperation with students, faculty and institutions in Caribbean populations.

The course is required for students applying to participate in the Field Research Aruba program to prepare them for conducting field research.
 

Format
Week 1: Discussions and guest lectures on introductory topics
Weeks 2 and 3: Seminar sessions and workshops with visiting teacher from the University of Aruba.  Both weeks include additional guest teachers and video meetings will be set up with contacts in Aruba
Week 4: Guest lecture series:  Research applications in the Caribbean
Week 5: Students evaluate and present finalized research reviews for potential areas of research